Rufus Greenbaum, Born 1941 in Brighton, I worked in the Electronics industry, now – retired. My wife Helen & I have 2 sons who are married with wonderful wives and children. We live in Stanmore in NW London. UK. I was active in UK Hasbara from 2001-2006. Stopped overnight in 2006 because of the stupidity of the Israeli government in the way that they started the 2006 Lebanon war – why should I waste my effort when the idiots Olmert & Livni created more problems than they solved.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Israel is vital to me and my family. I have a son & sister living in Israel, plus grandchildren and other relations.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes – 100% support.”
Do you affiliate yourself with a specific confessional division in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox division in Israel religious establishment?
“No opinion.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“No – this is the responsibility of the Palestinians and the Israeli government.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“The effect of false, corrupted & negative press .”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Israeli embassies do a good job at the government level, but the public “Hasbara” is appalling.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Advise & support – yes Depends what you mean by “Defend” – morally Yes, but physically No.”
Have you ever been to Israel?
“Yes hundreds of times since 1976.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“I Live in Stanmore, NW London. It is the largest Jewish community in Europe with 2,500 families.”
Is there a question you feel should be added to the project’s questionnaire?
“What could & should be done to influence the false press reporting coming out of Israel ?”
